How to Remove Tea Stain from White Shoes

Don’t let a tea party ruin your kicks, just use club soda and a quick flick.

Spilling tea on my favorite white shoes was the crowning achievement of my clumsy morning. The universe must have thought, “Why not add a dash of Earl Grey to those fresh sneakers?”

Turning Tragedy Into Triumph

More than ironic, it was downright frustrating. But I’ve discovered that removing a tea stain from white converse isn’t just a fantasy—it’s doable. Grab your cleaning kit, we’re about to turn this clumsy accident into a triumphant recovery!

What You’ll Need

  • Mild detergent or dish soap
  • Club soda or cold water
  • Soft-bristle brush or old toothbrush
  • Clean cloth or sponge
  • White vinegar (optional)
How to Remove Tea Stain from White Shoes

How to Remove Tea Stain from White Shoes

Step 1: Act Fast

Time is of the essence when dealing with tea stains. As soon as you notice the spill, blot it gently with a clean, dry cloth to soak up as much liquid as possible. Remember, blot—don’t rub!

Step 2: Pre-treat the Stain

Mix a little mild detergent or dish soap with club soda or cold water. Dip a soft-bristle brush or old toothbrush in the solution and gently scrub the stain in a circular motion. Be gentle; you don’t want to damage the fabric.

Step 3: Rinse and Repeat

Rinse the treated area with cold water and inspect the stain. If it’s still visible, repeat step 2 as needed. For stubborn stains, you may add a few drops of white vinegar to the mixture.

Step 4: Air Dry

Once the stain is gone, pat the area dry with a clean cloth and allow the shoes to air dry completely. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause discoloration.

Now you can put on your refreshed white shoes and strut your stuff. That tea stain didn’t stand a chance!

Quick Tip

Blot, don’t rub. Rubbing the stain will only spread it and make it harder to remove. Instead, blot the stain with a clean, damp cloth.

Related Article:

When Those Stains Just Won’t Budge

If that stain is still stubbornly visible after your best efforts—you know, that tea stain that just won’t let go—don’t lose hope. You might just need a different approach. Let’s see what you can try:

Club Soda: A Gentle Solution

Pour a bit of club soda onto the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. If you’ve never used it before, it’s a gentle way to nudge those stubborn spots—you can simply blot it away with a clean cloth.

White Vinegar: A Household Helper

Got some white vinegar in the kitchen? You can create a mix of equal parts white vinegar and water, and apply it to the stain with a sponge or cloth. Let it soak in for a few minutes, and then blot it away. It’s surprising how this household staple can be such a helper for those tough stains.

Hydrogen Peroxide: Use with Care

Now, if the stain is particularly persistent, hydrogen peroxide may be the heavy-hitter you need. Just make sure to dilute it with water first—you don’t want to go too strong on your favorite shoes. Apply the diluted solution to the stain, give it a few minutes, and then blot it away with a clean cloth.

Wrapping Up

Spilling tea on your white shoes is no longer a catastrophe. With some patience and the right approach, you can remove tea stains from white shoes and get them looking like new again. Whether it’s club soda, white vinegar, or even hydrogen peroxide—these tips should provide you with the tools you need to tackle those pesky tea stains. So go on, give it a try, and keep your shoes looking their best!